Western music that colors graduation ceremonies. English graduation songs that resonate with the heart.

I’ll Be Missing YouPuff Daddy ft. Faith Evans & 112

Puff Daddy [feat. Faith Evans & 112] – I’ll Be Missing You (Official Music Video)

This is a tribute song to The Notorious B.I.G., who passed away in 1997, released by Puff Daddy together with Faith Evans and 112.

It boldly samples the melody of The Police’s classic “Every Breath You Take,” blending a gospel-like grandeur with the warmth of R&B.

The lyrics poignantly express feelings for a loved one who can no longer be seen and reflect on the days spent together.

Released in May 1997, it spent 11 consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It won in the rap category at the following year’s Grammy Awards.

It’s a perfect song for farewells with friends or for graduation ceremonies where you want to express gratitude for the time you’ve shared.

My FriendsRed Hot Chili Peppers

Red Hot Chili Peppers – My Friends [Official Music Video]

The world-renowned rock band Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Formed in Los Angeles in 1982, they have remained at the forefront for over 40 years with their unique sound that fuses funk and rock.

This song is a single from their 1995 album One Hot Minute and is known as a quiet, introspective ballad in their discography.

Its lyrics, which seem to reach out and say “I’m here for you,” resonate deeply as they stand beside friends in their loneliness and pain.

It’s a track that, at the milestone of graduation, reminds us of the importance of bonds and mutual support among friends.

Though not flashy, its gentle melody holds a profound kindness, making it a classic we highly recommend to anyone who values friendship.

22Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift – 22

A track included on the 2012 album Red is a bright pop anthem that celebrates the innocence and freedom of the early twenties.

Created by Taylor Swift in collaboration with world-renowned producers Max Martin and Shellback, the song portrays a wounded heart finding healing through time spent with friends.

Its breezy sound, blending elements of disco and 1990s rock, emphasizes anticipation for the new days ahead rather than the sadness of a breakup, and will gently support anyone facing the milestone of graduation.

It’s a song I recommend to all who want to carry the days spent with friends in their hearts and take a step toward tomorrow.

Keep Holding OnAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – Keep Holding On

Avril Lavigne, the Canadian singer-songwriter who debuted in her teens and continues to captivate fans worldwide as the “Queen of Pop Punk.” Her power ballad, released in November 2006 as the theme song for the film Eragon, was also included on her album The Best Damn Thing.

The song carries a message of never giving up, no matter how hard things get, and moving forward while supporting one another with someone you cherish.

Its grand sound, built on rich strings and live instrumentation, stirs the listener’s heart.

Certified Platinum in the United States and peaking at No.

17 on the Billboard Hot 100, it earned high acclaim.

As you reach the milestone of graduation and want to express gratitude to friends and mentors before parting ways, this song will gently give you a push.

Highly recommended for anyone seeking the courage to take a new step forward!

Everybody’s Free To Wear SunscreenBaz Luhrmann

Baz Luhrmann – Everybody’s Free To Wear Sunscreen

Let me introduce a unique, speech-style number created by Baz Luhrmann, known as a film director and stage director.

Released as a single in February 1999, this track was based on a fictional commencement address written by newspaper columnist Mary Schmich.

It begins by emphasizing the importance of wearing sunscreen and gently unfolds with life wisdom about human connection and self-care.

The monologue, set over a trip-hop-inspired, chill sound, slips into the heart without feeling pushy.

It topped the charts in the UK and Ireland and has become a graduation-season staple beloved around the world.

It’s a song that quietly gives you a nudge forward on the day you take your next step.

The RoseBette Midler

The Rose – Bette Midler (Japanese lyric subtitles) English & Japanese Lyrics

What is love? This universal question is painted with poetic metaphors—rivers, knives, and flowers—in this song by Bette Midler.

Recorded for the 1979 film of the same name, it was used as the theme song over the end credits.

Woven only from simple piano and strings, the ballad may not be flashy, but it quietly seeps into the listener’s heart.

The lyrics depict a seed sleeping beneath the winter snow that, bathed in the spring sunlight, blossoms into a rose, carrying the message that even amid hardship, the seeds of hope exist.

In 1980, it reached No.

3 on the U.S.

singles chart and won the Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.

It seems only fitting that this hope-filled melody should grace graduation ceremonies, where new steps are taken forward.

Girls Just Want To Have FunCyndi Lauper

Cyndi Lauper – Girls Just Want To Have Fun (Official Video)

Cyndi Lauper, an icon of 1980s pop culture.

The lead single from her 1983 debut album, “She’s So Unusual,” is a pop anthem that joyfully celebrates women’s freedom and the spirit of having fun.

Originally written from a male perspective, she reinterpreted the song to fit her own character, transforming it into a bright, empowering message.

In 1984, it peaked at No.

2 on the U.S.

charts and became a worldwide hit.

The following year, she won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist.

The song also inspired the title of the film “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” and it remains a beloved staple at sporting events and festivals.

It’s the perfect track to remind you, at a graduation milestone, of the importance of enjoying life in your own way!